I kind of want to get the music back on a road it hasn't been on for a while. I want to promote the arts as part of the American diet.

In this quote, Jason Moran, a renowned jazz pianist and composer, expresses his desire to revitalize music and bring it back to a place where it is more integral to society. He aims to guide music into new territories, away from the trends that have limited its full potential. Moran’s ambition is to make art—especially music—an essential part of the American diet, meaning he wants it to be widely recognized, appreciated, and consumed by people in everyday life.

Moran’s mention of the "road it hasn’t been on for a while" suggests that, in his view, the current state of music may have strayed from its roots or its potential as a powerful cultural force. He sees a need for a shift, where art and music are valued not just as entertainment but as a critical part of the broader cultural and societal experience. By referring to it as part of the "American diet," he is calling for music to be as natural and important in daily life as food, something that nurtures and sustains the soul.

His statement reflects a desire to promote the arts on a larger scale, emphasizing their importance to cultural enrichment. Moran suggests that art, particularly music, plays an essential role in shaping society and human connection. He wants to ensure that music continues to evolve while remaining a central part of people’s lives, fostering creativity, inspiration, and collective understanding.

Ultimately, Moran’s quote highlights his commitment to artistic advocacy and his vision for a future where music and the arts are more deeply woven into the fabric of American life. By promoting music as part of the cultural foundation, he seeks to inspire a more profound appreciation for the arts that goes beyond entertainment and taps into its transformative and unifying power.